The city of Dundee has always had a very close relation
with the Tay river, and thus with its waterfront. The historical
evolution of Dundee's harbor has developed in parallel with the
city's economical and social changes, continuously changing the
relation of the city with the river and the perception of
it.

After the slowdown of port-related industries the transformation
of the riverfront has continued but until recently, due to a lack
of a strong urban fabric, there has not been a connection between
the city center and the Tay.

Today with the new waterfront Masterplan there is a great chance
to re-engage a close relation between Dundee and the river.

Image courtesy Kengo Kuma and V&A
at Dundee

The location selected for the museum creates the opportunity for
a network of public spaces, each with a different character, to
connect the old center of Dundee to the new cultural center
embodied by the V&A.

Image courtesy Kengo Kuma and V&A
at Dundee

Image courtesy Kengo Kuma and V&A
at Dundee

The design of the building constantly maximizes its amazing
location. It is surrounded by a promenade providing an excellent
vantage point to view the river, the City and the spectacular new
museum itself.

Image courtesy Kengo Kuma and V&A
at Dundee

Image courtesy Kengo Kuma and V&A at
Dundee

Image courtesy Kengo Kuma and V&A at
Dundee

The signature restaurant and its panoramic terrace are
positioned to offer spectacular views of both the Tay estuary and
Tay Road Bridge.

Image courtesy Kengo Kuma and V&A
at Dundee

Terraces on the main museum floor open the public space to the
outside and create several panoramic points of view from which to
enjoy the beauty of the Tay landscape and its ever-changing light.
These external spaces also provide the perfect backdrop for summer
pavilions.

Image courtesy Kengo Kuma and V&A
at Dundee

Central to the building's all-inclusive ethos is its monumental
welcome hall, a multi-functional space suitable for a range of
social events and activities - from concerts and workshops to
large-scale installations and performance.

Image courtesy Kengo Kuma and V&A
at Dundee

Image courtesy Kengo Kuma and V&A at
Dundee

The double height DIA center, located at an intermediate level
above the main entrance, enable visitors to get a look at the
workshop without disturbing the artist at work.

Image courtesy Kengo Kuma and V&A
at Dundee

All the galleries, illuminated by skylights on the roof, have
the possibility to be either completely darkened, or to just use
artificial light depending on the necessity of the
exhibitions.

Image courtesy Kengo Kuma and V&A
at Dundee

The striking structural facade - composed of horizontal concrete
bands clad in reconstituted stone - creates a dynamic texture, open
to both natural light and ventilation. This banding also provides
thermal mass - keeping the gallery spaces cool in the summer and
warm in the winter. Reconstituted stone has the qualities of
natural stone yet will be locally sourced, is more environmentally
friendly, lower cost and higher performance.

Image courtesy Kengo Kuma and V&A
at Dundee

Image courtesy Kengo Kuma and V&A at Dundee

I am thrilled to be able to work with those at
V&A at Dundee in order to give shape to their vision and to
contribute meaningfully to the cultural richness of the city.